When I grew up, there were dysfunctional family arguments, all out fist fights, telling, cursing, and general mayhem during the holidays.

My extended family was so dysfunctional, I swear we could not even get through one meal together without some kind of drama. I've seen bloody noses as Christmas tables.

It was a horrific experience to have to live through.

Now I have holidays alone and give thanks to God and pretend that I've always had great memories and a great normal family to spend holidays with even though that's not true. But I pretend it's true and it's much better now.